Exclusive interview: H2O Global News’ Natasha Posnett spoke with AVEVA Global Water Industry Principal, Gary Wong, about how their technology can assist with monitoring water to improve sustainability throughout the water industry.
The blue planet; a term which connotes plentifulness and life. Sadly, this image is quickly altering as reliable seasons are traded for more frequent extreme weather events and flowing rivers are overused and left dry. We are living in a world where our fresh water supplies are running out. Now, more than ever before, we need to alter our behaviour around water use. It is no exaggeration to say that every drop of water counts!
Currently, fresh water is being used at an unsustainable rate. Finding ways in which to overcome these issues is essential if we are to pass on a healthy planet to future generations. The use of innovative technology is one solution. By accurately monitoring our water usage we can save water, energy and money; creating a more sustainable future.
AVEVA is one company who is leading the way in this area by using performance intelligence to help their customers find the best answers. They help water utilities to optimise performance, turn data into insight and establish sustainable efficiency across the water industry.
The water industry: what’s the problem?
Water is a vital resource, we cannot live without it, but we are using it at an unsustainable rate. People, industries and agriculture dictate supply and demand, often causing water stressed regions to overexploit their freshwater sources. As humans we will always require fresh water, so it is essential that we figure out how to meet our needs in a sustainable manner which can be continued for years to come.
There is also the added issue of energy usage and greenhouse gas production. Typically, about 30 percent of a water utilities operating costs is attributed to energy. Overall, drinking water and wastewater systems account for approximately two percent of energy use in the United States, adding over 45 million tons of greenhouse gases annually!
To become more sustainable the water industry needs to reduce its overall water usage and decrease energy consumption, all while staying cost effective.
AVEVA Global Water Industry Principal, Gary Wong said: ‘We understand that power consumption is a huge part of sustainability. Our software allows utilities to track and monitor how much energy is being used at any given time. We can help our water customers by figuring out how much water they need to deliver and when, and then working out the best way for them to do it efficiently. It allows them to reduce their energy footprint. We see a lot of our customers save anywhere between 5-12% on their energy consumption.’
The water industry: what’s the problem?
Technology as the solution
Innovation and technology are key when implementing strategies to overcome large scale global issues such as unsustainability in the water sector.
Operators of water or wastewater utilities are required to provide reliable and affordable services, while complying to strict government regulations, safety, and ensuring the sustainability of their operations. It is a tough job in an ever changing environment. They are in need of more efficient methods to optimise their energy and water usage.
AVEVA’s technology covers these areas. They provide software that allows companies to perform their work better, faster, cheaper and greener. Overall they are helping to maximise asset and operating efficiency in a demanding environment. The technology is able to predict water demand, detects leaks, manage extreme weather events and prevent sewer overflows. By incorporating energy efficiency practices into their water and wastewater plants, utilities can save huge amounts of energy and money. Real time data allows utilities to stay up to date with current situations, also resulting in a decrease in their water and energy usage.
Wong explained said: ‘The big message in the water industry at the moment, is not only sustainability, but also resilience. It is all about being ready for the next unknown which can of course be quite challenging. We have the ability to provide our customers with real time situational awareness so they can see from anywhere exactly what is happening in the process.’
Technology as the solution
Change is required
The issues in the water industry are being spoken about, but change needs to be made faster. The failure to address unsustainability now will result in greater issues in years to come. A new generation and fresh minds may be just the push that the industry needs.
Wong summed it up perfectly: ‘What I think is really positive, is that there are a lot of younger professionals getting into the business who are very technology savvy. They expect to see things on their phone and have real time information. New blood and a diverse workforce will help with the change that we need in the water industry. The technology is there, we just need the people and process to catch up! Ultimately, we are on the right path which makes me very optimistic. We are on a digital transformation journey and a big part of that is making sure the utilities are aware and educated that these solutions exist.’
It is time to get the news out there that these technologies are available. They will undoubtedly be an important part of moving towards a more sustainable future and maintaining a healthy planet for everyone to enjoy.
Change is required
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